RICHMOND, Va., Jan. 18 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- World-renowned Tenor Anthony Kearns gave two special performances during the Official Inaugural Celebration of the 71st Governor of Virginia, Robert F. McDonnell, a grandson of Irish immigrants.

Kearns, a founding member of The Irish Tenors, performed at the Benefactors' Gala for 600 guests at the historic Jefferson Hotel in Richmond, VA on Friday, Jan. 15. He sang three powerful pieces, namely "La Donna e Mobile" from Verdi's Rigoletto, the poignant "Danny Boy," and "When Irish Eyes are Smiling." He was accompanied by Eric Stern.

Kearns discussed the performance on Saturday during an interview on WTOP Radio, the top-rated radio station in the Washington, D.C. market.

"Beyond celebrating his Irish roots, I admire Governor McDonnell for the way in which he puts people first above politics. His choice to name the Salvation Army as the inaugural charity, for example, shows his devotion to the cause," said Kearns.

Kearns was warmly introduced at the gala by Sheila Johnson, C.E.O. of Salamander Hospitality and co-founder of BET. Johnson, a major supporter of the arts, noted that The Irish Tenors' last CD, "Christmas," was No. 1 on the World Billboard Chart last month.

Kearns also sang before a crowd of approximately 1,000 people at the Governor-elect's Prayer Breakfast on Saturday, January 16 at the Richmond Marriott. Introduced by U.S. Congressman Randy Forbes (R-VA), Kearns received praise for his moving rendition of "Amazing Grace" from McDonnell and his Democratic predecessor, Tim Kaine, Virginia's first Irish Catholic Governor. Kaine also chairs the Democratic National Committee.

"Anthony Kearns' outstanding performances at Governor-elect McDonnell's Inaugural Gala and Prayer Breakfast demonstrate the power of his voice and his ability to unite people through song. He has a remarkable gift," said Kirsten Fedewa, who secured the engagements for Kearns with McDonnell and his team.